Jan 29, Tuesday
Course Wrap Up
Earth Science Greatest Discoveries will Bill Nye or Free time to get caught up on any last minute assignments

Jan 25, Friday (Period 4 Double Exam, No 3rd)
7th: Course Wrap Up

Jan 24, Thursday (Double 8th, No 9th)
4th: Final Exam Review Puzzle #2
7th: Universe "SuperNovae"
(Final Exam for a semester course = 20% of your overall course grade!)
In order to prepare for the Final exam, focus on studying previous course tests.

Jan 23, Wednesday (Double 3rd, No 4th)
7th: Universe "Most Dangerous Places"

Jan 22, Tuesday
7th Period Final Exam Part 2
4th Period: Final Exam Review Part 2
(Final Exam for a semester course = 20% of your overall course grade!)
In order to prepare for the Final exam, focus on studying previous course tests.

Jan 21, Monday
7th Period Final Exam Part 1
4th Period: Final Exam Review Part 1
(Final Exam for a semester course = 20% of your overall course grade!)
In order to prepare for the Final exam, focus on studying previous course tests.

January 18, Friday
7th Period: Final Exam Review Part 2
4th Period:
  • Please begin by taking this online survey to help out AP Environmental Students
  • Create and email me a Wordle for either Earth & Space Science OR for 1 Major Course Unit we studied:
  1. Go here
  2. Click "Create" or "Create Your Own"
  3. Add all of the vocab, big ideas, short phrases, and any other important items in the field reading: "Paste in a bunch of text:"
  4. Edit the Font, Color, Layout, etc. to make the Wordle as visually appealing as possible
  5. Take a snapshot, screen capture, etc. of the completed Wordle and send it to me via email. (mchughc@nasdschools.org) *Note: on a Mac you can easily take a snapshot by clicking "Shift + Command + 4" and then clicking and dragging across the region you want. The snapshot will automatically be saved on your desktop.
Final Exam Period 7 (Mon 1/21 & 1/22) Period 4 Double (Fri 1/25).
(Final Exam for a semester course = 20% of your overall course grade!)
In order to prepare for the Final exam, focus on studying previous course tests.
End of 2nd Marking Period Mon. 1/28

January 17, Thursday
7th Period: Final Exam Review Part 1
4th Period: Course Summary: "Big Ideas in Geoscience" video (question sheets collected for credit)
Final Exam Period 7 (Mon 1/21 & 1/22) Period 4 Double (Fri 1/25).
(Final Exam for a semester course = 20% of your overall course grade!)
In order to prepare for the Final exam, focus on studying previous course tests.
End of 2nd Marking Period Mon. 1/28

January 16, Wednesday
7th Period: Course Summary: "Big Ideas in Geoscience" video (question sheets collected for credit)
Final Exam Period 7 (Mon 1/21 & 1/22) Period 4 Double (Fri 1/25)
(Final Exam for a semester course = 20% of your overall course grade!)
In order to prepare for the Final exam, focus on studying previous course tests.

January 15, Tuesday
(Final Exam for a semester course = 20% of your overall course grade!)
In order to prepare for the Final exam, focus on studying previous course tests.
Began work on Final Exam Extra Credit Review Puzzle (due on the day of the final exam)

January 14, Monday (Double 4th and Regular 7th Period)
4th: Earth Bio Atmosphere
7th: Finish How the Earth was Made

January 11, Friday (Regular 7th, no 4th Period)
How the Earth was Made

January 10, Thursday
Return and cover Astronomy Unit Test
Return all unit tests. STUDY THESE FOR FINAL EXAM!
Finish viewing Universe: Space Travel
View Sagan on 4th Dimension (a better explanation?)

January 9, Wednesday
Test Make Ups / Began Viewing Universe: Space Travel
End of 2nd Marking Period Mon. 1/28
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

January 8, Tuesday
Astronomy Unit Test Today!
Bonus Puzzle afterward
End of 2nd Marking Period Mon. 1/28
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

January 7, Monday
CPS Review of Astronomy Unit
Astronomy Unit Test Tomorrow
End of 2nd Marking Period Mon. 1/28
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

January 4, Friday
Checked and covered Astronomy Unit Study Guide
Began work on Astronomy Unit Extra Credit Review Puzzle (due Tuesday)
Astronomy Unit Test Tuesday 1/8

January 3, Thursday
Covered remaining of CH 31 Notes
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt

Students began Astronomy Unit Study Guide
Astronomy Unit Test Tuesday 1/8
Homework: Finish Unit Study Guide for tomorrow

January 2, Wednesday
Continued CH 31 Notes
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt


Dec 21, Friday
Viewed Universe: Milky Way (Question sheet collected for credit)
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 20, Thursday
Finished "Life and Death of a Star" and collected question sheets for credit. (10:00)
Covered first part of CH 31 Notes (Slides 1-15)
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt
ES Chapter 31 08-09.ppt

Homework: Online discussion response "Stellar Life Cycles" (due tomorrow)

Dec 19, Wednesday (SWPBS mtg. 4th period)
Viewed Universe: Life and Death of a Star (Question sheet collected for credit)
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Next Time, insert Universe: "Supernovae" around this point. Also this.

Dec 18, Tuesday
Covered CH 30 Notes 61 - end
Viewed accompanying video clip: Death of a Star
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 17, Monday
Students finished work on the H-R Diagram Gizmo. If you finish early, respond to the online discussion topic for this week.
*Progress Reports coming soon; use class time to get/stay caught up on assignments!
Homework:Finish the gizmo if not done in class. Online discussion response "Stellar Life Cycles" (due Friday)
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 14, Friday
Doppler Effect Vid. Clip (2:00)
Briefly finish CH 30 Notes thru slide 56
Began work on the H-R Diagram Gizmo
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 13, Thursday
Announcement: I've updated the "Extra Credit" page on our class website. I think you'll find any of these bonus opportunities a fun and rewarding opportunity.
Check and cover homework
Covered CH 30 Notes 33 - 56 w/ Doppler Effect Vid. Clip (2:00)
Homework: Online discussion response "Solar System Formation" (due tomorrow!)
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 12, Wednesday
Viewed: Planets and Stars to Scale (2:30) and the observable universe (Beyond the Big Bang 4:40 - 7:50)
Viewed Prezi on "Solar System Scale Model" by McHugh
When you get a chance, check out the "Solar System to Scale" banner hanging above the laptop cart
Begin homework sheet, Finish Scale of the Universe Quiz from Tuesday, and/or respond to the online discussion for this week.
Homework: 29.4 Study Guide
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 11, Tuesday
Viewed Cosmic Voyage DVD (Question Sheets Collected for Credit)
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 10, Monday
Students completed the Scale of the Universe Quiz
*Note: this is the only class period reserved for this activity. Please remember to click "submit" or your answers will not be sent
Homework: Online discussion response "Solar System Formation" (due Friday)
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 7, Friday
Viewed The Universe: "End of the Earth" (20:00 first half)
Worked to finish the Celestia activity, respond to online discussion, etc.
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 6, Thursday
Finished CH 29 Notes
Homework: Complete online discussion response "Human Impact" (due tomorrow)
S11.A.3.3 Compare and analyze repeated processes or recurring elements in patterns.

Dec 5, Wednesday
Students finished work on the Celestia part 1 activity. *Please note: this is the only remaining class time reserved for this activity. (here is the answer sheet to use).
Make sure to follow the guide sheets, answer all questions, and get teacher initials when instructed on guide sheets.
Celestia Part 1 due Friday
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Next Time, insert Universe: "Nebulae" around this point

Dec 4, Tuesday
Checked and covered homework
Viewed vid. on Eagle Nebula (2:00) and other Short vid. on Nebulae
Introduced and began work on Scale of the Universe: Celestia part 1 (here is the answer sheet to use).
  1. How to open Celestia
  2. Follow the printed guide and answer questions on answer sheet
  3. Purpose: To teach the scale (sizes and distances) of our solar system, galaxy and the known universe
  4. Controls: Much like a flight simulator. Accelerate(A), Stop(S), Center(C), Arrows control direction of flight. You will quickly learn that it can be difficult to steer your ship to a target. This is why Center(C) is a huge help once you've clicked "Location, and Selected" a target. Center(C) even helps if you've zoomed past a target. Don't neglect the mouse clicker (it is great for things you can actually see on your screen). Finally, the "Location" options can mess things up a bit; you should generally stick to "Follow" whatever your target is.
  5. Use Internet to learn about things you encounter or to answer additional questions you have
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Dec 3, Monday
Finished viewing The Universe: Alien Planets (10:00)
Viewed streaming vid. on Kepler's laws (3:30)
Covered CH 29 Notes 13-28 w/ Demo: "Orbiting the center of mass"
Homework: 29.1 Study Guide and complete online discussion response "Human Impact" (due Friday)
S11.A.3.3 Compare and analyze repeated processes or recurring elements in patterns.
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Nov 30, Friday
Viewed The Universe: Alien Planets with video question sheet

*You really need to consider learning about and then incorporating planet hunters into this part of the course!

Nov 29, Thursday
Review group presentation on "The Search for Extrasolar Planets"
About Voyager 1 & 2 (4:30)
Returned and covered Rock Unit Test (time permitting)
Homework: Online discussion response "Natural Disasters" (due tomorrow)

Nov 28, Wednesday
Drake equation for the potential of intelligent life in the galaxy Sagan (8:30)
Continue "The Search for Extrasolar Planets" Google Docs activity (Be prepared to present your group slides by tomorrow)

Nov 27, Tuesday
Earth-like planet found!? (September 2010)
Video (Michio Kaku) (3:00)
Video (3:30)
"The number of systems (solar) with potentially habitable planets is probably on the order of 10 or 20 percent, and when you multiply that by the hundreds of billions of stars in the Milky Way, that's a large number. There could be tens of billions of these systems in our (Milky Way) galaxy," said Vogt.
McHugh: Some other interesting thoughts to consider: 1. The estimated age of the universe according to the big bang theory is about 13.75 billion years. 2. The estimated age of earth is about 4.54 billion years. 3. The estimated age of the human species is measured in 100,000's years, but evolutionary biologists figure that life in general has been evolving on earth for over 3 billion years. 4. What do you think all of this suggests about the possibility of other life out there in the universe?
Introduce "The Search for Extrasolar Planets" Google Docs activity
S11.A.3.3 Compare and analyze repeated processes or recurring elements in patterns.
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Nov 26, Monday
Finish viewing the last 10-15 min. Beyond the Big Bang
Complete online discussion response "Natural Disasters" (due Friday)
S11.A.3.3 Compare and analyze repeated processes or recurring elements in patterns.
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Nov 21, Wednesday
Period 4: Finished viewing Beyond the Big Bang
Period 7: Pep rally festivities to begin a little before 1 PM (View a portion of Cosmic Collisions on Netflix)

Nov 20, Tuesday
Period 4: Begin Beyond the Big Bang
Period 7: Finished viewing Beyond the Big Bang

Nov 19, Monday
Period 4: Hurricane Gizmo on explorelearning.com (Begin video tomorrow)
Period 7: Begin viewing Beyond the Big Bang

Nov 16, Friday
Students finished work on the Solar System Explorer Gizmo. Returned student work.
Homework: Finish the Gizmo if not done in class
S11.A.3.3 Compare and analyze repeated processes or recurring elements in patterns.
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Nov 15, Thursday
Covered CH 29 Notes 1-12. Viewed clip on Mars Orbit: "Retrograde Motion"
Began work on the Solar System Explorer Gizmo (as a class).
Homework: New Discussion response: "Natural Resources" (due tomorrow)
S11.A.3.3 Compare and analyze repeated processes or recurring elements in patterns.
S11.D.3.1 Explain the composition, structure, and origin of the universe.

Nov 14, Wednesday
Rock Unit Test Today!
If you finish early, grab a laptop and respond to the online discussion for this week
Began Greatest Evolution Discoveries (Bill Nye) Example of the History of Life on Earth Preserved in Rock Layers

Nov 13, Tuesday
Rock Unit Test tomorrow
Checked and covered homework
Offered Rock Unit Test extra credit review puzzle. (due tomorrow)
CPS review of rock unit
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Nov 12, Monday
Rock Unit Test Wednesday Nov. 14
Checked and covered the homework
Began work on Rock Unit Study Guide (due tomorrow)
Offered Rock Unit Test extra credit review puzzle. (due Wednesday)
(Extra Time?) Begin Greatest Evolution Discoveries (Bill Nye) Example of the History of Life on Earth Preserved in Rock Layers
Homework: New Discussion response: "Natural Resources" (due Friday)
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.
S11.D.1.1.3 Analyze features caused by the interaction of processes that change Earth’s surface

Nov 9, Friday
Rock Cycle Concept Map Activity. (Make sure to completely write the info in each space) *This will be a useful study tool
  • Check and cover
Complete online discussion response and/or 6.3 study guide
Rock Unit Test Wednesday Nov. 14
Homework: 6.3 study guide

Nov 8, Thursday
Checked and covered homework
Students completed the Metamorphic Rock Lab Activity:
  1. Dissecting microscopes are available
  2. Number the samples on your lab sheet #45 through 50.
  3. Here are your answer choices: Slate, Gneiss, Quartzite, Marble, Hornblende Schist, and Mica Schist
  4. Use the table on the front of this sheet, large separate table, and the Internet/other appropriate available resources to I.D. the samples and to answer the questions. HCl is available to help ID marble; ask for a small drop, wash your hands when done, DO NOT get in eyes.
  5. Students not present for this lab... in order to receive credit, write a summary explaining: What is metamorphism? What are the major types of metamorphic rocks? How do foliated compare to non-foliated metamorphic rocks? (examples of each) What is contact metamorphism? What is hydrothermal metamorphism?
Homework: New Discussion response: "Rock Cycle" (due tomorrow)
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.
S11.D.1.1.3 Analyze features caused by the interaction of processes that change Earth’s surface

Next Time, insert Earth Biography "Atmosphere" around this point
And incorporate new Google Docs activity "Investigating a Landslide"

Nov 7, Wednesday
Brain Pop Cartoon "Weathering" (1:50) Brain Pop Cartoon "Erosion" (1:57) Types of Metamorphic Rocks (4:00) About Metamorphic Rocks (2:00)
Viewed short clip on "How Metamorphic Rocks are Formed"
Completed the remaining CH 6 Notes
Homework: Types of Sedimentary Rocks and CH 6.1a Study Guide (due tomorrow) and New Discussion response: "Rock Cycle" (due Friday)
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.
S11.D.1.1.3 Analyze features caused by the interaction of processes that change Earth’s surface

Nov 6, Tuesday
Viewed Brain Pop Cartoon "Geologic Time" (3:19) and Short Streaming Vids: Sed. Rocks, Chemical Weathering and Erosion
About Sedimentary Rocks (2:00) Intro to Sedimentary Rocks (8:00)
Covered CH 6 Notes through slide 28
Smithsonian Virtual Field Trip Panoramas (and mineral, rock, gem images time permitting)
Homework: New Discussion response: "Rock Cycle" (due Friday).
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.
S11.D.1.1.3 Analyze features caused by the interaction of processes that change Earth’s surface

Nov 5, Monday (IEP mtg. 4th Pd.)
The end of the 1st marking period is Nov. 12th. Submit incomplete "i" work NOW and STAY CAUGHT UP!
Finish rock model lab activity from last week (10 min.):
  1. Peel paper cups away from rock models
  2. Answer remaining worksheet questions (Original rock samples #1, 2, & 3 are on hand)
  3. Turn in worksheet.
Viewed "How the Earth was Made"

Oct 29, Monday - Nov. 2, Friday (School Closed for Hurricane Sandy)

Oct 26, Friday (Half-Day In-service Periods 1-4 only)

Oct 25, Thursday
The end of the 1st marking period is Nov. 6th. Submit incomplete "i" work NOW and STAY CAUGHT UP!
Begin "Rock Forming Minerals" activity:
  1. Log into your Gmail account
  2. Brief tour of features for those who haven't logged in yet (who knows some features?)
  3. Under documents open the 2 files: "Rock Forming Minerals" that I've shared with you. (*Notice one is a Presentation, while the other is a Google Form)
  4. Now all of us can add (appropriate) images and text to the presentation simultaneously
  5. Your name should already be on one of the slides. You may edit it, add to it, create new slides for more room, etc.
    • Click on Mr. McHugh's pagefor specifics on what your slides should include (See the assignment
      "Rock Forming Minerals")
  6. Once you're done creating your slides, add 2 related multiple choice questions to the Google Form. (Click "Form" and "Edit Form")
  7. Once everyone is done adding questions, everyone will take the quiz (You should reference the presentation to help answer the questions)
Homework: New Discussion response: "Life Evolves on Earth" (due Tomorrow)

Oct 24, Wednesday
The end of the 1st marking period is Nov. 6th. Submit incomplete "i" work NOW and STAY CAUGHT UP!
Collect remaining Rock Cycle Gizmos
Check and cover homework
Viewed Bill Nye on November Election
Rock Cycle Lab: Creating models of a sedimentary rock.
Please help clean up lab areas by returning materials to designated table in the back. Thanks!
P.S. Don't forget about Rock Cycle Gizmo (if you haven't finished yet)
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.
S11.D.1.1.3 Analyze features caused by the interaction of processes that change Earth’s surface

Oct 23, Tuesday
The end of the 1st marking period is Nov 6th. Submit incomplete "i" work NOW and STAY CAUGHT UP!
Brain Pop Cartoon "Rock Cycle" (2:00)
Review of Class Performance
Returned and covered Mineral Test
Finished work on the Rock Cycle Gizmo , Igneous Rock lab, and weekly discussion response if necessary. (Gizmo due Tomorrow)
Homework: 5.1 Study Guide and finish Rock Cycle Gizmo
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 22, Monday
Bio Keystone Benchmark on Study Island
If you finish early, get right on to the online discussion response for this week. Get caught up on any missing work, etc.
*Please note: this is an official testing situation. Please DO NOT distract test takers. Make sure to work on whatever your working on quietly...that's all.
Homework: New Discussion response: "Life Evolves on Earth" (due Friday)

Oct 19, Friday
The end of the 1st marking period is Nov 6th. Submit incomplete "i" work NOW and STAY CAUGHT UP!
Finished remaining igneous rock labs from yesterday.
Introduced and began the Rock Cycle Gizmo. Make sure to read and follow directions carefully; I'm looking for correct answers to the questions as well as a diagram that will be sketched as you complete the directions.
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 18, Thursday
The end of the 1st marking period is Nov 6th. Submit incomplete "i" work NOW and STAY CAUGHT UP!
Use Internet info, tables, images, etc. to aid in identification (not required)
Students completed the Igneous Rock Lab. Igneous rock textures: Phaneritic, Aphanitic, Porphyritic, Vesicular, Glassy.
Samples for today's lab include #3 & 4 (found in ziplock bags), and #30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36 from the mineral/rock kit; make sure you number these in order on lab sheet and that your samples match my master kit.
Note: If you were absent for this activity, write a 2 paragraph summary explaining the properties used to identify igneous rock samples. Include a description of how each of the following would be classified and explain why: Pumice, Granite, Basalt, and Obsidian.
Homework: (Study Island Assignment due tomorrow. You must achieve a minimum score of 70% to receive credit.)
Homework: New Discussion response: "Earth is a Water Planet" (due tomorrow)
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 17, Wednesday
Finished Earth Bio DVD: Volcanoes
Covered CH 5 Notes and viewed igneous rock samples and streaming video clips: "Granite Formation" (5:00) "How Igneous Rocks are Formed" (2:00) and Brain Pop Cartoon "Major Rock Types" (2:00)
Show Iceland pics from 2010 trip
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 16, Tuesday
Test Make Ups, etc.
Earth Bio DVD: Volcanoes

Oct 15, Monday
Collected Extra Credit Review
Mineral Test and Lab Practical Today! Done early?: Mineral Hidden Message Bonus Puzzle, or finish lab work, etc.
Homework: (Study Island Assignment due Friday 10/19. You must achieve a minimum score of 70% to receive credit.)
Homework: New Discussion response: "Earth is a Water Planet" (due Friday)
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.
S11.D.1.2.1 Evaluate factors affecting availability, location, extraction, and use of natural resources.
external image MSZvPWIxM2JhYzJlZmFiOTRiMDU5NGYyNzU5ZjViOWU3YzI4Jm9mPTA=.gif

Oct 12, Friday
Collect Mineral ID Lab and handout extra credit review puzzles
CPS review for mineral test
Finish Mineral Lab and/or Extra Credit Crossword Puzzle, online discussions, study island, etc.
Mineral Test and Lab Practical Monday
Homework: (Study Island Assignment due Friday 10/19. You must achieve a minimum score of 70% to receive credit.)

Oct 11, Thursday
Checked and displayed homework key
Offered extra credit review puzzle (due Monday). Mineral Test and Lab Practical Monday 10/15
Students used this period to:
  1. Finish this lab (due tomorrow)
  2. Complete online discussion responses
  3. Study Island
Homework: New Discussion response: "Earth is Constantly Changing" (due tomorrow)
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 10, Wednesday
Checked and displayed homework key
Students continued the Mineral I.D. Lab. Please take a chance to look at the samples in Moh's hardness kit. (The box top is labeled and 7 or 8 of the samples ARE AMONG THE UNKNOWNS YOU ARE TRYING TO I.D.!
Make sure your samples are in the correct spot in the kit and that you're checking my kits when you have questions about ANY properties. Note: This lab will be graded on completeness and correctness. If you are on track, today you should be looking at (samples 14-22 MINUS 19). There will be some more time tomorrow to finish this lab.
Homework: 4.2a Study Guide (due Tomorrow). Don't forget online discussion, and study island
Mineral Test and Lab Practical Monday 10/15
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 9, Tuesday
Demonstrations of "special" mineral properties (fluorescence, magnetism, smell, etc.)
Finished CH 4 Notes
Dissecting microscopes are available
Students completed Part 3 of the Mineral I.D. Lab (samples 14-22 MINUS 19). See directions below. Note: something that had metallic luster may appear as rusty. (You should really take a look at the mini luster, cleavage, and fracture kits today). Make sure your samples are in the correct spot in the kit and that you're checking my kits when you have questions about ANY properties. It would also be a good idea to compare your samples to those of a neighboring group.
Note: This lab will be graded on completeness and correctness.
Homework: 4.1 Study Guide due tomorrow
New Discussion response: "Earth is Constantly Changing" (due Friday)
(Study Island Assignment due Friday 10/19. You must achieve a minimum score of 70% to receive credit.)
Mineral Test and Lab Practical Monday 10/15
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 5, Friday
Viewed Earth Biography: Rare Earth

Oct 4, Thursday
Dissecting microscopes are available
How to I.D. mineral cleavage (tendency of minerals to break along planes of weakness). wikipedia pics vs. fracture
Students completed Part 2 of the Mineral I.D. Lab (samples 6-13). See directions below. Make sure your samples are in the correct spot in the kit and that you're checking my kits when you have questions about ANY properties. It would also be a good idea to compare your samples to those of a neighboring group.
Note: This lab will be graded on completeness and correctness.
Homework: New Discussion response: "How old is earth?"
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 3, Wednesday
Continued CH 4 Notes (slide 29 thru 44 before Mineral I.D. Lab)
Examine / Review Mineral Properties Kits
I will lead lab groups through checking your kits and I.D.ing sample #2. Students completed Part 1 of the Mineral I.D. Lab (samples 1-5). Directions on the handout lead you to collect data on all samples before attempting to I.D. Some people prefer to use flowcharts to I.D. samples one at a time. I have HCl up front if you think you need it to positively I.D. a sample. (NOTE: It is dangerous to eyes and skin! If you mess around with it, you will receive disciplinary action). The only other safety concern is sharp edges (BE AWARE: Glass can cut you! DO NOT handle broken glass)
Also, you need to make sure you are working with the correct sample each time. If your sample has no number on it, check other kits around you or my master kit up front. The same goes for the Moh's hardness kit you are using.
Mineral Sample #
Clues and Hints
1
Non-metallic Dark colored
2
Rhombohedral?
3
Pretty easy
4
Non-metallic Light colored
5

6
Non-metallic Light colored
7
VERY Similar to #8
8
Vitreous = "glassy"
9
Non-metallic Light Colored. Texture / Feel
10
"Striations!?" Only appears on Table. NOT ON FLOWCHART
11
Often confused with #13
12
Pretty Easy
13
Often confused with #11
14
Sometimes confused with #9 (Look at ALL details)
15
Pretty easy
16
Pretty easy
17
Look at various samples with a magnifying glass or dissecting scope. (See any surface patterns?)
18
ONLY FOUND ON TABLE
20
Often confused with 27, but shouldn't be
21
Pretty easy
22
Metallic luster
23
Often mis- I.D.'d as #2, but shouldn't be
24
Metallic luster, even if sample doesn't appear so
25
Metallic luster, even if sample doesn't appear so
26
Metallic luster, even if sample doesn't appear so
27
Often confused with 20, but shouldn't be
28

29
NOT ON FLOWCHART
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 2, Tuesday
Take a moment to check your crystal garden (please handle with care)
Continued CH 4 Notes (thru slide 44 before Mineral I.D. Lab)
Brain Pop Cartoon "Mineral Identification" (2:00)
Homework: New Discussion response: "How old is earth?"
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Oct 1, Monday (Optional Demos: "Sodium Acetate Trihydrate" and "Which Minerals will Fizz?") *Note: you will need a 5:1 ratio of sodium to water for the aforementioned demo
Announcement: Review declining participation in discussion forum. Bottom line: I covered a lot of folks by accepting late responses on paper, but not anymore. No offense.
On a separate (yet maybe connected) note: If you bring me 1 (12 oz. can) of soda before homeroom tomorrow, I will award you 5 extra credit points!
Returned and covered Unit 1 Test
Continue Crystal Garden lab:
  • Review lab sheet together
  • Create crystal mixture (as a class)
  • Add 100 mL of crystal mixture to your base
Homework: New Discussion response: "How old is earth?"
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Sept 28, Friday
Lab: Growing Crystals
  1. Demo videos of the process
  2. Before participating in this activity, you must successfully complete this quick online tutorial.
  3. Display / Print explanation (more detailed explanation) of physical process of crystal formation
  4. SAFETY: This lab involves the use of ammonia and other toxic substances. Goggles and gloves will be worn at all times when working with these substances. Deliberate safety violations, horseplay, etc. will be met with serious disciplinary action.
  5. Part 1 of lab today: Designing your crystal garden base (I would recommend some kind of branching shape.) Also consider how the base will be attached. DO NOT make it too tall. (this will limit the capillary action and you won't get crystals all the way up the base)
Homework: Bonus Challenge!: Prep and deliver a brief presentation on "What is a diamond?" using any reasonable presentation technology format of your choice (must be easily accessible via school laptop, etc.). Or you may suggest a different, yet geology-related Earth Science topic to me for consideration. Good luck!

Sept 27, Thursday
Important Announcement: There is an online discussion topic assignment every week. Your complete response is due by the end of the school day on Friday of each week. If you missed the first and/or second discussions so far, you can write your responses to them on paper by tomorrow and still receive credit. Last opportunity for this!
Finished Earth Bio Ice DVD (10 min.)
Viewed streaming vid. Rocks and Minerals (3:00)
Covered CH 4 Notes thru slide 13 (Minerals from solution)
Brain Pop Cartoon "Crystals" (2:00)
Homework: New Discussion response: "Earth Systems Interactions" (due tomorrow)
S11.D.1.1.1 Classify and describe major types of rocks (i.e., igneous – granite, basalt, obsidian, pumice; sedimentary – limestone, sandstone, shale, coal; and metamorphic – slate, quartzite, marble, gneiss) and minerals (e.g., quartz, calcite, dolomite, clay, feldspar, mica, halite, pyrite) by their origin and formation.

Sept 26, Wednesday
Scheduled test make ups.
Earth Bio Ice DVD; collect / discuss.

Sept 25, Tuesday
Unit 1 Test Today
Done early? Please work quietly on classwork, Unit 1 Hidden Message Puzzle, read, etc.
Homework: New DIscussion response: "Earth Systems Interactions" (due Friday)

Sept 24, Monday
Reminder: Make sure to complete your Topo Gizmo document. (I will be grading that very soon)
Checked and covered the homework
Unit 1 test review puzzle extra credit offered (due Tomorrow)
Discussed content and format for test Tomorrow
CPS clicker review of unit 1.
Unit 1 Test Tomorrow
Homework: New DIscussion response: "Earth Systems Interactions" (due Friday)

Sept 21, Friday
Unit 1 Test Tuesday 9/25
Checked and covered the homework
Completed work on the Gizmo activities
Unit 1 Hidden Message Puzzle available
Online Discussion response due Today
Homework: Completed Gizmos due Monday and Study Guide 2.2
S11.A.3.2.3 Describe how relationships represented in models are used to explain scientific or technological concepts (e.g., dimensions of objects within the solar system, life spans, size of atomic particles, topographic maps).

Sept 20, Thursday
Continued work on the Gizmo activities (see yesterday's entry below). If you finish early, see map projections activity from 9/17 below. There will be a few test questions on map projections.
*Check out some topo maps of our region that I just hung up in the classroom
Completed Gizmos due Monday
Online Discussion response due Tomorrow
Unit 1 Test Tuesday 9/25
Homework: Study Guide 2.1
S11.A.3.2.3 Describe how relationships represented in models are used to explain scientific or technological concepts (e.g., dimensions of objects within the solar system, life spans, size of atomic particles, topographic maps).

Sept 19, Wednesday
I introduced and students began work on the Topographic Map Activity
Homework: Study Guide 2.1
S11.A.3.2.3 Describe how relationships represented in models are used to explain scientific or technological concepts (e.g., dimensions of objects within the solar system, life spans, size of atomic particles, topographic maps).

Sept 18, Tuesday (Next Time Earth Bio "Rare Earth")

"Reliability of Sources" with Mrs. Madden in the Library

September 17, Monday
Tomorrow this class will meet in the Library (Go directly there)
Demonstrated how to measure distance on Google Earth
Finish and submit Google Earth activity from last time
Map Projections Activity:
  1. Visit the Globe Projector (Keep the "database" slider on the right in "outline" mode. Move the left slider up and down. On paper make brief notes on the different types of projections you see (I think there are 3 types found there))
  2. Now go through the Round Earth, Flat Maps feature, again making a few careful notes on the purposes of each map projection you read about.
  3. Turn in your paper

Sept 14, Friday
Finish notes through latitude and longitude
Who can provide the most accurate latitude and longitude coordinates:
  1. For Pennsylvania?
  2. For the town of Northampton?
  3. For the NAHS cafeteria?
I introduced and students began: Google Earth Science Places of Interest
Locating Places on Google Earth.doc
Locating Places on Google Earth.doc
Locating Places on Google Earth.doc

  • Degree of detail of your answer depends on how large the object is. (i.e. coordinates for an ocean may be given in degrees alone)
  • For the Chicxulub crater; determine how it was formed and what was the result to life on earth.
  • For #12, use Jacobsburg State Park as the closest
S11.A.2.2.2 Explain how technology (e.g., GPS, spectroscope, scanning electron microscope, pH meter, probe, interface, imaging technology, telescope) is used to extend human abilities and precision.

Sept 13, Thursday
Checked and covered homework
Covered Unit 1 Notes slides 37 to 47 or to the end (with map projections demo)
I introduced and assisted students to begin: Google Earth Science Places of Interest. (Finish tomorrow on your own)
Homework: Respond to Online Discussion by tomorrow

Sept 12, Wednesday
Collected Intro to Data Collection Lab
Covered Unit 1 Notes through scientific method (22-36).
"The Scientific Method Made Easy" (10:00)
Homework: 1.1 Study Guide and 1.2 Study Guide
SciMethodWordle.png
SciMethodWordle.png



Sept 11, Tuesday (Get Ice and Hot Water)
Check and display homework key
I introduced and students performed the "Intro to Data Colection" Lab
Safety for this lab:
  1. Keep computer far from beakers of hot and cold water
  2. Follow lab and teacher instructions carefully (I'll walk you through setup, then you've got to read)
Collected Intro to Data Collection Lab (Finish for tomorrow if not done in class)

S11.A.2.1.3 Use data to make inferences and predictions, or to draw conclusions, demonstrating understanding of experimental limits.
S11.A.2.1.4 Critique the results and conclusions of scientific inquiry for consistency and logic.
S11.A.2.1.5 Communicate results of investigations using multiple representations.

Sept 10, Monday
Make sure these steps have been completed, then respond to the first online
In order to facilitate Discussion Forum, setup wikispaces accounts:
  • Go to wikispaces.com
  • Create a new account username: YourLastName2012 password: ? (But make sure you write it down!)
  • You DO NOT need to create your own wiki
  • You DO need to go to nahsearthscience.wikispaces.com and click "Join" and "Request Membership"
  • Once I approve your membership, you will then be able to respond to the first discussion
*Please Note: Online discussion responses are due by Friday each week
Homework:
external image octet-stream.png
external image octet-stream.png
Earth Sci Branches Class.isf (due at the beginning of class tomorrow)

Sept 7, Friday (Period 4 Grade 12 Assembly for 18 of 25 students)
For those sticking around, lets get back online and make sure wiki account, etc. is setup, then:
Activity: Earth Systems Interactions
  1. The main theme of this course is that there are MANY examples of interactions between earth systems: Lithosphere, Hydrosphere, Atmosphere, and Biosphere. It's what earth science is all about. Examples of such interactions include: weathering of rocks, respiration, volcanism, photosynthesis, and many, many more)
  2. Your Job: Work with a partner, using a textbook, Internet, etc. on blank paper:
    1. Explain and summarize an example of an interaction between at least 2 earth systems. Cite specific pages, images and information from the text or web. For example, if you choose to summarize interactions between the hydrosphere and lithosphere, you might mention weathering, but there are many other examples you can find in the textbook.
    2. Present your explanation to the class
    3. Class: can anyone identify other examples of interactions between these 2 earth systems OR additional systems involved in this specific interaction?

Sept 6, Thursday
Covered Unit 1 Notes to slide 21 "Lithosphere." View: "Earth Systems Science" (6:00)
Briefly review creating a wikispace account (time permitting)


Sept 5, Wednesday
Checked signed syllabus / Viewed streaming video "Why Earth Science?" (6:30)
Announcement: A textbook may be signed out at any point during this course. Any takers?
SWPBS Expectation Lessons (Cafeteria 1st 10 min. of 4th period)
In order to facilitate Discussion Forum, setup wikispaces accounts:
  • Go to wikispaces.com
  • Create a new account username: YourLastName2012 password: ? (But make sure you write it down!)
  • You DO NOT need to create your own wiki
  • You DO need to go to nahsearthscience.wikispaces.com and click "Join" and "Request Membership"
  • Once I approve your membership, you will then be able to respond to the first discussion

September 4, Tuesday (Periods 1 - 4 are 30 min.)
Quote of the Day: "A short saying often contains much wisdom." I begin class each day with a quote or a question on the board; just some food for thought.... maybe something to talk about. Anyway, it's a good idea to write some of them down in your notebook or somewhere, since you can earn extra credit by remembering them on quizzes and tests!
Attendance (during meet & greet activity), Welcome, and Fire Exit Procedure
  • How many of you love to get stuff for free?
  • What would you say if I offered you a bunch of cash for free!?
  • How much $ do you think NASD spends per student each year?
  • Our district website. (Please pay particular attention to the final figure at the bottom)
  • I'm going to continue to try my best to give you your money's worth!
  • With that said, Learning is an active process. People learn in different ways, and at different speeds, etc. but I think we can all agree that we generally learn more effectively when we are actively engaged in the process. What is the best way to acquire KNOWLEDGE? Information is everywhere, I'm asking about knowledge (Censor/Bleep 2nd vid. @ 2:45)
Homework: Get syllabus signed for tomorrow. (10 points)
Earth Sylabus.doc
Earth Sylabus.doc
Earth Sylabus.doc

Interview and introduce a neighbor (someone you don't know yet) / Cover course syllabus and expectations:
  1. Meet & Greet activity
  2. Find out& record on 1/2 sheet of paper:
    • His or her name (I've heard it said, "The most important thing you can remember about a person is their name.")
    • His or her interests, future plans, expectations for this course, etc.
  3. Introduce him or her briefly and effectively (30-60 sec.), tell us what you learned, and give us one piece of info from the syllabus or one class rule
  4. Class Website
  5. Textbooks (time permitting)